CVE-2008-2742 in Achievo
Summary
by MITRE
Unrestricted file upload in the mcpuk file editor (atk/attributes/fck/editor/filemanager/browser/mcpuk/connectors/php/config.php) in Achievo 1.2.0 through 1.3.2 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code by uploading a file with .php followed by a safe extension, then accessing it via a direct request to the file in the Achievo root directory. NOTE: this is only a vulnerability in environments that support multiple extensions, such as Apache with the mod_mime module enabled.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/27/2024
The vulnerability described in CVE-2008-2742 represents a critical unrestricted file upload flaw within the Achievo content management system version 1.2.0 through 1.3.2. This security weakness specifically affects the mcpuk file editor component located at atk/attributes/fck/editor/filemanager/browser/mcpuk/connectors/php/config.php, where the system fails to properly validate file extensions during the upload process. The vulnerability arises from insufficient input validation that allows attackers to bypass security measures designed to prevent execution of malicious code through file uploads.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability exploits the way web servers handle file extensions and content type detection. Attackers can upload files with filenames containing .php followed by seemingly harmless extensions such as .jpg or .gif, creating a hybrid file that appears legitimate to the upload system but contains malicious php code. This technique relies on the specific configuration of the web server environment, particularly Apache servers with mod_mime module enabled, which can interpret files with multiple extensions as executable. The vulnerability is categorized under CWE-434, which specifically addresses the improper restriction of uploads of executable files, and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190, which covers the exploitation of vulnerabilities in web applications through file upload mechanisms.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and can lead to complete system compromise when exploited successfully. Remote attackers can execute arbitrary code on the target server, potentially gaining full administrative control over the Achievo installation. The attack vector requires a direct request to the uploaded file within the Achievo root directory, making it particularly dangerous as it can be exploited without requiring authentication or complex attack chains. The vulnerability essentially provides attackers with a backdoor mechanism to deploy web shells, malware, or other malicious payloads directly on the server, enabling persistent access and data exfiltration capabilities.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on implementing robust file validation mechanisms and server configuration hardening. Organizations should immediately patch to versions of Achievo that address this specific file upload vulnerability, as the vendor has likely released security updates to resolve the issue. Server administrators must ensure that web servers are properly configured to prevent execution of uploaded files, particularly by implementing proper file extension validation, content type checking, and moving uploaded files outside the web root directory. Additional protective measures include implementing web application firewalls, restricting file upload capabilities to authorized users only, and employing proper input sanitization techniques to prevent the bypass of security controls through malicious filename manipulation. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper file handling security practices and the dangers of relying on client-side validation alone for critical security controls.